Shree Shree Shiv Mandir (SSSM) Singrijan Rangapahar celebrated its Diamond Jubilee on Wednesday with governor of Nagaland, La Ganesan, as chief guest.
On the occasion, the governor also inaugurated that renovated Shiv Mandir, a construction undertaken by Chandu Agarwal and family in loving memory of their parents.
The Mandir is located at Tsithrongse Village, Chümoukedima, and is presumably the oldest Mandir in the state.
Addressing the gathering, governor hailed the temple’s illustrious journey and underlined how, since its inception, the temple had evolved into a sanctuary for countless devotees hailing from both within and beyond the state.
He also shared on the information that Shree Shree Shiv Mandir held the distinction of being one of the state’s oldest religious institutions as its foundation dating back to 1962, devoted to the worship of Lord Shiva and also acknowledged the tale behind the temple’s genesis, which was erected precisely where the Shivalinga was discovered.
He further illuminated on the tireless efforts of the Temple Committee Members, which according to him, was extended beyond spiritual pursuits, encompassing valuable societal initiatives.
Ganesan also commended the daily acts of charity and establishment of a “Gurukul” within the temple premises, aimed at disseminating free knowledge of Sanskrit and Vedic mantras for the purpose of performing pujas.
The Governor further expressed the collective responsibility to combat prevailing social, economic, and political evils and called for a unified effort to eradicate social injustices, including those inflicted upon women, children, and the marginalized.
He also underscored the need to annihilate economic challenges like poverty and hunger, as well as political inequities.
In conclusion, the governor extended heartfelt felicitations to Shree Shree Shiv Mandir and its dedicated committee and fervently invoked blessings from the divine, wishing for the temple and its benevolent endeavors to radiate positivity and virtue throughout society.
Also delivering a short speech, Head GB, Tsithrongse Village, Tsithrongse Sangtam, expressed dismay on the deplorable road condition in the vicinity.
He stated that many devotees from all parts visited the Temple and urged upon the Governor to considering constructing a bridge and repair the road.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Jenny Lamechane Chetri, and welcome address by Chandu Agarwal. Agarwal address urged upon the Governor to name Shree Shree Shiv Mandir Singrijan as a Heritage Temple. A heritage history of Shiv Mandir was also addressed by Devendra Rana.
Highlights of the programme included a presentation of welcome song in Sanskrit by Children devotees, lighting of the lamp by the governor and other dignitaries, while a Gorkha Dance presented by Singrijan-Khopanala Youth Association.